Journalist warns Real Madrid superstar could be dropped as summer signing emerges as serious alternative

Journalist warns Real Madrid superstar could be dropped as summer signing emerges as serious alternative Vinicius Jr.’s slow start to the 2026/27 season could have consequences at Real Madrid, with Yan Diomande now emerging as a genuine alternative to the Brazilian winger. According to a major revelation from Cadena SER , Diomande’s recent performances have opened the door to a possible change if Vinicius cannot rediscover his best level in the coming matches. The issue became more noticeable during Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Elche .  Los Blancos appeared to be cruising after scoring twice inside the opening half-hour, but Elche fought back to level the game before Carlos Espi’s stoppage-time winner . Diomande stood out during the contest, while Vinicius struggled to make the same impact, yet again. Diomande is putting pressure on Vinicius Yan Diomande was impressive against Elche. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) Journalist Tomas Roncero highlighted the growing competition around Vinicius after Diomande’s display, pointing specifically to the youngster’s versatility across the flanks. “Beware of the threat posed by Diomande, who played well on the right today and even better on the left,” he said. Roncero also stressed that Vinicius’ current level cannot simply be ignored because of his importance to Real Madrid. “I’ve said it, and I suppose Vinicius’s people will be angry as always because here, no matter how much affection you show someone, they don’t realise that at Real Madrid, when someone isn’t playing so well, you have to say so, otherwise it wouldn’t be Real Madrid.” Simply put, if Vinicius does not respond soon, something he has promised that he will work on, Mourinho may have a decision to make. Mourinho still trusts Vinicius Vinicius once again failed to influence the match. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) Vinicius has registered one goal and three assists in seven appearances across La Liga and the Champions League this season, numbers that show his lack of consistency rather than a complete absence of contribution. Jose Mourinho, on his part, has continued to express confidence in the forward, with the manager believing his best level will return once the goals begin arriving more regularly. Still, Diomande’s emergence changes the equation. The young winger has shown he can influence games, while his performance against Elche provided further evidence that he can compete for meaningful minutes. If Vinicius fails to sharpen his finishing and regain his explosiveness, a spell on the bench would not necessarily represent a loss of faith from Mourinho.  Rather, it could instead be a reminder that even established stars have to maintain their level at Real Madrid.